From: Paul R

Is there any way to drill a hole thru a finished cabinet, as in
installing handles, and not have the wood finish at the other end of the
hole (the exit point) become splintered or otherwise split when the bit
comes thru? FWIW, I'm using a variable speed drill.

Paul, i read the replies to this post and while they are good ideas they are
indeed overkill....i install kitchen/bath cabinets for a living, so drilling
for hardware is an everyday occurance...i never use a backer, or a bradpoint
bit, i never have to drill from both sides, and i don't have the backside "blow
out" in either real wood or laminated particleboard...secret? sharp bit and let
the tool do the work...don't force it, don't "lean" on it, just hold light
steady pressure and the bit will do its job quickly and neatly...

Chris Perdue